+JMJ
Dear Parishioners,
I'm writing this letter in the last couple days of my vacation. Most of my vacation was spent at my sister's house, except for a visit to the Fort Wayne area for a wedding reception of some close friends. I took the vacation opportunity to read a significant portion of Dante's Divine Comedy. In this work, Dante imagines the classical poet Virgil guiding him – before Dante actually dies – from the top of hell to its bottom, and then from the bottom of purgatory all the way into heaven. I always imagined reading Dante's work in its original Italian; but once I looked at the Italian, I realized it would probably be more work than I would have time for. It's Italian from the 13th century, and it's poetic language at the same time. So, I finally gave in, and decided to read it in English. I got through hell, and a significant portion of purgatory. (You might say I've “been to hell and back” for vacation!) I am eager to experience Dante's imagination of heaven. Key to Dante's experience of hell and purgatory are the deceased characters he meets there. Each person experiences punishment perfectly matching that person's earthly sinfulness and vice (permanent punishment in the case of those people in hell, temporary and medicinal punishment in the case of those people in purgatory). As you can imagine, I found plenty of encouragement in Dante's Divine Comedy to strive for holiness!
I also have been doing some work with the diocesan Living Christ capital campaign, communicating with the leaders of the company handling that campaign. We created the materials that will be used on the parish level. I also have been reaching out to a small group of potential leaders from our parish. Please pray for the success of this campaign. The proposed use of funds on both diocesan and parish levels is very worthy.
Finally, you have seen the announcements regarding the National Eucharistic Revival, which began in the United States on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. The first year pertains primarily to the diocesan level; while the second year focuses more specifically on the parish level. The Bishop assembled a Diocesan team to help lead this effort. The team includes clergy, religious and laity. The staff and I will try to stay in sync with this endeavor; keeping you informed and involved as we are able. May the Lord use this effort to help all of us delve more deeply into the rich mystery of the Holy Eucharist, and truly to experience the Eucharist as the Source and Summit of our life!
Have a blessed week!
In cordibus Iesu et Mariae,
Father Poggemeyer